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Department mergers must break down siloes

April 28, 2017

Responding to Premier McGowan’s announcement of a 40 per cent reduction in the number of government departments, the WA Council of Social Service has highlighted that this is a crucial opportunity to deliver better outcomes for the community.

WA Council of Social Service CEO Louise Giolitto says “the number of departments is a matter for government. What is important is that this merger process is used to breakdown siloes in government and to create a culture of open collaboration across departments and agencies.”

“We know that life-changing outcomes for the most vulnerable in our community needs government to work beyond one portfolio or department.”

“People in need shouldn’t have to navigate a complex service system in order to receive help. Departments must work together with each other and the community to effectively target the areas of greatest need.”

“It is crucial that these amalgamations be used to drive meaningful change. Taking a local and integrated approach can make the greatest difference in their lives. WACOSS has been advocating for placed-based pooled-funding initiatives designed in partnership with local communities.”

“During the transition period it is paramount that essential services to the most vulnerable in our community are not adversely affected. Given these are complex changes, we need a clear transition strategy to ensure those in need do not fall through the gaps.”

“In reducing the number of government departments from 41 to 25, it is also important we don’t move from lots of smaller siloes to fewer, bigger ones.”

“There needs to be a priority on whole of government strategies to deliver more responsive, integrated and effective services to our communities.”

Ms Giolitto says that WACOSS will be watching this space closely to see what impact the department mergers have on effective service provision and the workforce.

“WACOSS looks forward to the opportunity of working with these new structures in government to deliver better, on-the-ground outcomes for our community. This is the chance to put WA Labor’s election promise for more collaborative service models into practice.”